There's a saying, "A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step." Today, I'm elated to share with you a new step in our journey at the Academy of Life Planning – the introduction of Financial Life Coach. Why this new venture? It's simple: clarity. Over time, I recognised a need for a … Continue reading Introducing Financial Life Coach: Tailored Financial Planning for Every Individual →

The world of financial planning has traditionally catered to a select few. With a staggering 95% of the population underserved, the demand for an inclusive, approachable model is evident. Pioneering this transformative shift is the collaborative strategy championed by Online Business Owners (OBO) and the innovative many-to-many marketing approach. The Current Landscape: An Underserved MajorityDespite … Continue reading Online Business Owners and Many-to-Many Marketing: Crafting a New Paradigm in Financial Services →

In recent years, the financial planning landscape has been in a tug of war between traditional models laden with high fees and a burgeoning movement towards non-intermediating financial planning. The latter signifies a shift towards a more transparent, accessible, and affordable financial advisory model, shedding the costly shackles of the former. This is more than … Continue reading The Dawn of Financial Empowerment: Steering Away from the Traditional Advice Model →

I am drawn towards the world of numbers by nature, having pursued a degree in mathematics and ventured into the realm of actuarial science while working for an insurance firm, now part of Royal London. Though my journey stopped short of qualifying as an actuary, my inclination towards numbers remained unswayed. Mark Twain cleverly remarked, … Continue reading Misinterpretations in Financial Studies: A Closer Look →

Introduction The traditional concept of retirement is undergoing a seismic shift, and not just because of increasing life expectancies. A recent article from FT Adviser highlights the trend of older workers leaving the workforce to "wind down," citing various reasons such as ill health and family responsibilities. While the financial implications of this trend are … Continue reading The “Silver Exodus” and the Opportunity for Sustainable Livelihoods: A New Perspective on Retirement →

Introduction The concept of retirement has evolved significantly since Otto von Bismarck first introduced government support for older citizens in 1881. With life expectancy on the rise, many people are now spending decades in retirement. However, a growing body of evidence suggests that the traditional model of retirement may not be the best path for … Continue reading Beyond Financial Security: The Importance of Eudaimonic Well-being in Retirement Planning →

What would be the mindful thing to do in life? It would be to imagine your best life and then put in place the finances to support it. The best for you, your family and friends, and your community. What would make the world a better place for you having lived? Let’s do that. We … Continue reading Mindful Financial Life Planning For A Life Worth Living →

Introduction The debate surrounding the impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on various industries, including financial services, is far from over. While concerns about job displacement persist, the Financial Conduct Authority suggests that AI could bridge the advice gap in the industry. Interestingly, many firms have already adopted AI technologies to enhance their services. This article … Continue reading How AI is Revolutionising the UK Financial Services Industry →

Introduction For over half a century, the financial services industry has been plagued by a litany of mis-selling scandals. From endowments and pensions to precipice bonds and unregulated collective investment schemes, the list is extensive and disheartening. Despite regulatory oversight, the problem persists, leaving investors vulnerable and eroding public trust. This article delves into the … Continue reading The Persistent Problem of Financial Mis-selling and the Emergence of Non-Intermediating Financial Planning →

Introduction In the hustle and bustle of modern life, we often find ourselves striving to control every aspect of our existence. However, the ancient Taoist concept of Wei Wu Wei, which translates to "action without action," offers a counterintuitive approach. This philosophy encourages us to let go and allow good things to happen naturally, a … Continue reading The Wisdom of Wei Wu Wei: Letting Good Things Happen →